Epaphras, a Fellow Servant

Epaphras may have been the one who first taught the Colossian brethren. Paul only uses the word "fellow servant" here and in 4:7. The word describes one who works with another in service to the great king. Paul calls Epaphras his "dear", or beloved, fellow servant, which indicates he had a very special love for him as a worker for the Lord. He also designates him as a faithful minister, which is a good commendation, especially directed to a church having trouble with false teachers. Just as the Colossians heard the good news of Christ from Epaphras, Paul heard the good news of their love from him. Love is a fruit of the Spirit and its presence would demonstrate the true nature of their conversion (Colossians 1:7-8).

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